Normalize duty before price
Source-based explanationCaterpillar’s rating paper gives different conditions for its backup, prime and continuous categories. Two quotations with the same headline kVA may therefore describe different operating duties. [1]
Use & limitsThis comparison method does not impose Cat definitions on other manufacturers.
What to ask next
Editorial checklist
- Keep original rating labels and ask each supplier for its defining document.
- Put model, rating, kWe, kVA, PF, Hz, voltage and site conditions on one comparison line. Mark unresolved fields explicitly.
Separate a conversion from a capability claim
Source-based explanationAGN 087 distinguishes active and apparent electrical power. At an assumed PF of 0.8, 250 kVA corresponds arithmetically to 200 kWe; that calculation alone does not prove a quoted set can deliver the required duty. [2]
Use & limitsThe stated PF is an assumption for the arithmetic example, not a fixed characteristic of every load.
What to ask next
Editorial checklist
- Compare the exact engine, alternator and controller along with the enclosure and accessories.
- Ask whether optional items in the brochure are included in the priced bill of supply. Retain a written deviation list.
Make totals and tests comparable
Source-based explanationOur editorial comparison worksheet should separate equipment, site works, logistics and service. Cummins describes load-bank testing with written results; ask each seller what its proposed test actually demonstrates. [3]
Use & limitsA resistive exercise record is not automatically evidence of every reactive-load or transient requirement.
What to ask next
Editorial checklist
- Match test load, duration, acceptance limits, witness arrangements and report scope.
- Align currency, quantity, named delivery place, quote expiry and warranty start. Keep unmatched offers in a clarification list rather than averaging their prices.
RESEARCH IN VIEWDecision framework
01
Define the briefOutput, duty and site conditions
02
Match the packageModel, components and delivery basis
03
Check the evidenceEntity, documents and test scope
04
Record the gapsClarify exceptions before comparing
Sources, dates and scope
4 references. Each record keeps its own review date. A manufacturer disclosure is not an independent test; a retrieval date is not a price-effective date. Hover, focus or tap a numbered reference to inspect its source.
- [1]Manufacturer technical paperwww.cat.com
Caterpillar · Generator Ratings: Prime, Standby Power and More ↗
Use & limits
Cat rating definitions; retain the named category and its conditions. Do not map every commercial label directly to an ISO designation.Sections Standby, Emergency Standby Power, Prime, Continuous
Publication date not stated · Web edition; publication date not stated · Reviewed 2026-10-22View the recorded evidence
Cat distinguishes backup duty, varying-load prime duty and constant-load continuous duty, with operating limits for each.
- [2]Alternator application notewww.stamford-avk.com
STAMFORD | AvK · AGN 087: Power Factor ↗
Use & limits
Actual load power factor is not fixed at 0.8; a unit conversion does not validate engine output or size a complete set.PDF p.1, Definitions; subsequent capability discussion
Publication date not stated · Issue C; date not established · Reviewed 2026-10-22View the recorded evidence
Power factor relates active kWe to apparent kVA. Conventional alternator ratings use 0.8 lagging power factor.
- [3]Manufacturer service explanationwww.cummins.com
Cummins · Load Bank Performance Testing ↗
Use & limits
Service explanation, not a complete FAT procedure, SAT protocol or current NFPA standard.Load Bank Performance Testing, main text
Publication date not stated · Web edition; publication date not stated · Reviewed 2026-10-22View the recorded evidence
Load banks apply controlled electrical loads; Cummins describes resistive exercise and written performance records.
- [4]Supplier marketplace disclosurewww.alibaba.com
Alibaba · Jiangsu Wellpower WP-C200GF listing ↗
Use & limits
One marketplace listing; the advertised price is a tier range, not a dated firm offer.Named source page / model table; see recorded evidence
Publication date not stated · Original public record · Reviewed 2026-10-29View the recorded evidence
WP-C200GF: Cummins NT855-GA; 200 kW / 250 kVA; 50 Hz; advertised US$11,500–16,000; MOQ 1 set.
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A useful correction